AEW Unrestricted Season 3, Episode 17: Mercedes Martinez

1

Alex Abrahantes

Alex Abrahantes is part of the AEW Spanish broadcast team and the manager of former AEW World Tag Team Champs, Lucha Brothers! Alex speaks of his AEW journey, his evolution as manager of the Lucha Brothers, the charisma of Rey Fenix and Penta, and the importance of creating excitement before their matches! He talks about the origins of “Penta Says,” the match Penta had against Cody Rhodes that resulted in Penta’s first-ever promo for AEW DYNAMITE, and Alex’s superhero-style pose in the Luchas’ entrance. Alex shares stories about his introduction to wrestling, training in Calgary with the Harts, his first-ever match, and his transition to broadcasting. Plus, Alex reveals the book that changed his life, what inspired him to start his YouTube show, “All Elite Soup,” and how he started toy hunting with All Ego Ethan Page.

55 min

2

Leyla Hirsch

Leyla Hirsch was born in Russia and moved to the United States with her twin sister after they were adopted at 8 years old. Leyla talks about coming to a new country, learning to speak English, what she misses most about Russia, and how she discovered pro wrestling. She speaks to all the things that hooked her into wrestling, convincing her mom to let her try, and giving up her college scholarship to pursue professional wrestling. Leyla remembers her first day training, her first match, wrestling in Germany and Japan, and how all of that led to signing with AEW! Plus, you’ll hear her thoughts on her matches with Hikaru Shida and Serena Deeb, why Eddie Kingston and Bryan Danielson are two of her favorite wrestlers today, and how her amateur career has influenced her in-ring style.

55 min

3

And The 2021 PWI Awards Go To... Mostly AEW

The Pro Wrestling Illustrated 2021 Awards have just been revealed, and it was pretty much a sweep for AEW! From Rookie Of The Year to Wrestler Of The Year to Tag Team Of The Year to Most Hated Wrestler, AEW dominated! PWI Editor-In-Chief Kevin McElvaney and Senior Writer Al Castle join to breakdown the award categories, the winners, the runners up, and share thoughts on why they believe the AEW Women’s Division cleaned up with 4 big wins for the likes of Britt Baker and Jade Cargill, and how Comeback Of The Year could have as easily gone to Sting or Christian Cage as it did to winner CM Punk. They also discuss Indie Wrestler of the Year winner Nick Gage and how AEW may have contributed his win, and share some of the funnier reader write-in “unofficial” awards (like Stooge Of The Year and Hot Tub Time Machine Match) that went to AEW.

55 min

4

Brandon Cutler

Brandon Cutler (aka Landon aka Two Contract Cutler aka Cold Spray Cutler) was the first person to do an entrance and step foot in an AEW ring when he debuted at the inaugural AEW Double or Nothing in 2019. He’s also the heart and soul behind the “Being The Elite” YouTube show. Brandon explains how he originally got involved in BTE filming and production, the details behind the emotional moment he received his two AEW contracts from The Young Bucks, the storylines that have crossed over to AEW DYNAMITE (like John Silver and the Dark Order), and the evolution of the Cutler Cam. Brandon also talks about his “There Must Be A Winner” feud and match with Peter Avalon on AEW DARK, and how he went from that to Corporate Stooge for The Elite with his track suits, face mask and cold spray. Plus, Brandon answers fan questions about his longtime friendship with Matt and Nick Jackson, Critical Botch, tag team wrestling, shoes, and the epic dragon coat!

55 min

5

Kyle O'Reilly

Kyle O’Reilly made his AEW DYNAMITE debut and beelined straight for Orange Cassidy! He talks about his surprise mid-match appearance, how it all came together so quickly, and the incredible reaction he received from the AEW fans. Kyle speaks to reuniting with Adam Cole and Bobby Fish, getting his first W at AEW, reDRagon’s theme music, and why the AEW locker room feels like home. He shares stories from his high school days playing rugby, reveals what inspired him to pursue a career in pro wrestling, and explains why his MMA training is so important to his in-ring performance. Plus, you’ll discover Kyle and tag partner Bobby Fish’s backstage nicknames!

55 min

6

Cody Rhodes & Amanda Huber

Cody Rhodes and Amanda Huber head the AEW Community Outreach team (with a big assist from Captain Shawn Dean). They describe the program's origins and goals, speak to some of their favorite activations to date, explain how they get AEW talent like Malakai Black, Ruby Soho, Thunder Rosa, and Mark Henry involved, and reveal how they decide which charity organizations to partner with in each respective city. They also share details about a couple of huge, upcoming projects including the “Who We Are: A Celebration of Excellence, Vol. 1” compilation album for Black History Month benefitting The Bootsy Collins Foundation, and a fashion show featuring original designs by AEW's lead seamstress, Sandra Gray. Plus, they discuss the unbelievable growth of the AEW Women’s Division, balancing wrestling and parenthood, the AEW baby boom, and Cody’s future plans for his beautiful baby girl, Libby.

55 min

7

Alex Marvez

Alex Marvez had a ringside seat to the formation of AEW. He explains how his friendship with Tony Khan allowed him to see AEW develop, grow and launch from the ground up. Alex talks about his own offer to join AEW, and the moment he knew Tony Khan really had something in the new wrestling company. Alex remembers AEW’s inaugural show, 2019 Double or Nothing, how he prepared for it, and what the experience was really like for him personally. He describes his day-to-day, behind the scenes gig for AEW DYNAMITE and RAMPAGE, how he keeps track of AEW stats, talent backgrounds and storylines, what it’s like working with The Young Bucks, Chris Jericho, and Jon Moxley, and why Mr. Brodie Lee was the scariest interview Alex has ever conducted. Plus, Alex shares his introduction to wrestling as a kid, the first live show he attended, his favorite wrestlers, how he got started in wrestling journalism, and the secret to backstage teleporting.

55 min

8

Captain Shawn Dean

Captain Shawn Dean works on the AEW Community Outreach team, helps book talent for AEW DARK and ELEVATION, is part of the Sammy Vlog crew, and is one of just 3 people who’ve beaten MJF at AEW! He tells the story of how he came to help CM Punk cost MJF a win, the role that QT Marshall and the Nightmare Factory played in his training and his AEW career, the phone call during the pandemic that changed his life, and “puttin’ on bangers for each other” at Daily’s Place. Shawn talks about growing up in South Side, Chicago, watching wrestling with his dad as a kid, his Navy career, playing arena football, starting wrestling training later in life in Atlanta, and the importance of believing in yourself. Shawn also explains what he looks for when booking talent for AEW, the best way to approach him if you want to be seriously considered, and why he’s so excited to see Daniel Garcia and Skye Blue’s growth.

55 min

9

Tony Khan Previews Revolution 2022

AEW REVOLUTION is live from the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida this Sunday, March 6th at 8pm Eastern! AEW CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan returns to break down the exciting matchups with Ref Aubrey and Tony Schiavone. Major Championships are on the line: Hangman Adam Page and Adam Cole in an AEW World Championship match; Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. defending the AEW Women’s World Championship title against Thunder Rosa; CM Punk and MJF squaring off in a highly emotional dog collar match; reDRagon attempting to claim the AEW World Tag Team Championship from Jurassic Express; an epic battle between Chris Jericho and Eddie Kingston; Tay Conti hoping to take the TBS Championship from Jade Cargill; every fan’s dream match between Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson; and an action-packed Face Of The Revolution Ladder Match.

55 min

10

Lee Moriarty

It didn’t take long after his AEW debut for Lee Moriarty to make a statement in the ring against CM Punk and Bryan Danielson. He talks about working with both, how and when he found out about his high-profile matches, and what he learned from the experiences. Lee discusses his Taiga Style philosophy and the meaning behind his mask, the reason he wears the drop singlet, his love of MF DOOM, and why he doesn’t consider himself a “technical wrestler.” Lee also shares stories from his time training lucha libre in Mexico, and reveals what he loves about Japanese wrestling.

55 min

11

Keith Lee

Keith Lee shares his reaction to the huge pop he received from the fans during his AEW DYNAMITE debut, the significance of his entrance theme music, the meeting with Tony Khan that sealed his decision to come to AEW, and what it means to “forward march” and be “limitless.” Keith speaks to the whirlwind week of massive moments in his life that included his wedding to Mia Yim and his AEW debut. He also chronicles his serious and scary battle with COVID, and the long-term effects that nearly cost him his wrestling career. Plus, he talks about his football career, his love of anime, his time in indie wrestling in Texas, the match with Donavan Dijak that ultimately changed his life, and what he learned from both Jim Ross and William Regal.

55 min

12

Danhausen

The “very evil, very nice” Danhausen offers all sorts of explanations and stories about his jar of teeth, the red paint around his eyes, his new dentist friend, and his relationship with Tony Elite. He discusses the major difference between curses and cursing, and why the former is acceptable and the latter is not, and how he became such a close confidant of one Conan O’Brien. Danhausen also reveals what it’s really like underneath the AEW ring, how his human disguise works, the origin of the Tequila dance, and all the great lessons he’s learned from George Costanza of Seinfeld fame. Plus, Danhausen speaks to his preferred mode of transportation, his recent offer to Wardlow, his brand new cape, his broken leg and subsequent recovery, his toy collection, and the reason why he was not invited to join the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society.

55 min

13

Brody King

Brody King joined Malakai Black’s House of Black at AEW, and talks about filming their creepy vignettes, how they found their entrance theme music, “Rise From Ruins” by Absent in Body, and why Buddy Matthews was allowed to join without the requisite number of tattoos! Brody talks about giving up his 15-year Hollywood career to pursue pro-wrestling, why his trainer told him to grow a beard before his first match, how he wrestled for 6-weeks with his jaw wired shut, and the influence that Mr. Brodie Lee had on his Brody King persona. He also has stories from his time working on movies and TV shows in Hollywood including “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” “Big Brother” (with Luchasaurus), “Pirates Of The Caribbean,” and “Angels And Demons.” Plus, Brody explains how he balances AEW and performing with his own band God’s Hate, what it was like meeting his musical hero Henry Rollins, how he started his taxidermy collection, and how he ended up on season 2 of Tim Robinson’s “I Think You Should Leave.”

44 min

14

William Regal

William Regal and two of his amazing lizards (see them in the video episode on YouTube) share details about his debut at AEW REVOLUTION, the phone call from Bryan Danielson that changed his retirement plans, and what he’s looking for when it comes to adding talent to the Blackpool Combat Club. Regal talks about his introduction to Jon Moxley, what he thought the first time he heard Mox cut a promo, and the friendship that developed with Mox over the years. He also remembers training Bryan Danielson, and what most impressed him most when they first started working together. And he recalls stories from his early days wrestling in Britain and the holiday camps, developing his own style, and learning from the likes of Terry Rudge and Rollerball Rocco. Plus, he has thoughts on comedy in wrestling, hair care, respect, proper British manners, and being a “gentleman villain.”

48 min

15

Wheeler Yuta

Wheeler Yuta has Orange Cassidy and Chuck Taylor to thank for his AEW opportunity! Wheeler explains what Orange and Chuck have done for his wrestling career, the power behind the Best Friends hug, and some of the advice he’s received from Jerry Lynn and Excalibur since coming to AEW. He shares his reaction to being slapped by William Regal, and what he hopes to learn from Bryan Danielson and Jon Moxley. Wheeler recounts painting his face like Sting in high school, the first time he met MJF, wrestling Lee Moriarty, and the real motivation behind him going to college at Villanova. Plus, Wheeler talks about his steel drum skills, the future of his mask, traveling with Nick Gage, Collateral Damage, Japan, and his run on “The Masked Wrestler.”

44 min

16

Dasha Gonzalez

Dasha Gonzalez has done a little of everything at AEW from time keeping to bell ringing to announcing to Spanish commentating to in-ring performing! She has a very funny friendship with Billy Gunn that includes game nights at his house, some tips on handling critical feedback on social media, and an “a-ha moment” when she realized wrestling was what she wanted to do. Dasha talks about her time competing on the beauty pageant circuit during her college years, the support she received from The Rock when she did “The Titan Games,” watching wrestling with her dad and brothers as a kid, and the first time she had to ring announce on live TV. She also shares some great behind-the-scenes moments from the AEW DYNAMITE Spanish announce table involving CM Punk’s entrance music, “Judas,” and Private Party.

46 min

17

Mercedes Martinez

Mercedez Martinez is the interim Ring of Honor Women’s Champion, and explains what the honor means to her, why it’s so significant for the ROH women’s division, and how it was working with Willow. Mercedes talks about her first opportunity at AEW at 2019’s All Out, why she believes that she was always meant to be at AEW, and the conversations she had with Tony Khan to make it happen. Mercedes discusses her AEW DYNAMITE debut against Thunder Rosa, how she hopes to use her veteran status to level up the women’s division, and why she feels it’s important for her to share her experience and expertise with both the AEW and ROH locker rooms. Plus, Mercedes reveals her childhood dream of being law enforcement, her desire to have a 60-minute match with Serena Deeb, her admiration for FTR, the first time she ever met Kenny Omega, and the importance of being authentic to yourself.

49 min

18

Samoa Joe

Samoa Joe has plenty to say about his return to ROH at Supercard Of Honor, the crazy travel that accompanied the day, how it feels to be the current ROH World TV Champion, and his first run at ROH in the early 2000s. Joe also talks about his AEW debut against Max Castor, his brutal chop battle with Suzuki, and meeting Tony Khan for the first time. He has stories about wrestling CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, and Jay Lethal, the influence that ROH has had in pro wrestling, and what sparked his love of wrestling as a kid in a family of fire dancers! Plus, Joe shares his thoughts on mentoring younger talent, the “Joe’s gonna kill you” chant, growing up in Huntington Beach, California, Polynesian culture, and his favorite video games.

44 min

19

Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy is reunited with his brother Matt at AEW, and relives the “juking on the run” moment that launched his AEW career! He talks about the Hardys first AEW DYNAMITE match against Private Party, meeting Tony Khan, AEW’s stacked tag team division, the Hardy Brothers versus the Young Bucks, and dancing with Danhausen. Jeff ponders the Hardys final run in pro wrestling, how many more Swanton Bombs he’s got left in him, and why coming to AEW was an absolute “no brainer.” Plus, he explains how a chance encounter with Sting when he was 12-years-old changed his life, and why music is such an important part of his life.

42 min

20

Toni Storm

Toni Storm saw Jeff Hardy wrestle when she was 10-years-old, and her fate was sealed! She explains how she convinced her mom and a small wrestling company in Australia let her wrestle at age 13, and how that led to a move to Liverpool, England. Toni recounts her journey to AEW, being among the first to qualify for the inaugural Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament, and why her passion for pro wrestling has been reignited since signing with AEW. Toni also talks about her chemistry with Ruby Soho, rooming with Jamie Hayter, and balancing career and personal life. Plus, Toni reveals her obsession with noodles, Motley Crue, and mental health, and she shares an unbelievable true travel story she experienced the day she recorded this podcast.

46 min

21

Tony Khan Previews Double or Nothing

AEW CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan returns to break down the exciting matchups with Ref Aubrey and Tony Schiavone. Major Championships are on the line: Hangman Adam Page and CM Punk in an AEW World Championship match; Thunder Rosa defending the AEW Women’s World Championship title against Serena Deeb; Anna Jay attempting to claim the TBS Title from Jade Cargill; and an epic fight for the AEW World Tag Team Championship between defending champs Jurassic Express, Keith Lee and Swerve Strickland, and Team Taz’s Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs. TK also discusses the dream tag match between The Young Bucks and The Hardys; the action-packed Anarchy in the Arena match between the Jericho Appreciation Society and Eddie Kingston, Santana & Ortiz and the Blackpool Combat Club; MJF and Wardlow’s long-awaited battle; and the highly-anticipated, historic Men and Women’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament Finals. Plus, Tony Khan shares some thoughts on the DOUBLE OR NOTHING HOOK-Hausen buy in match!

59 min

22

Live at FanFest with Hangman Adam Page, Scorpio Sky, and Thunder Rosa

Live at FanFest with Hangman Adam Page, Scorpio Sky, and Thunder Rosa AEW Unrestricted was live in Las Vegas last weekend at DOUBLE OR NOTHING FanFest! TNT Champion Scorpio Sky, AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa, and former AEW World Champion Hangman Adam Page regaled the live audience with great stories about some of their favorite matches on their respective championship journeys, memories from DOUBLE OR NOTHING during the pandemic, and hopes for their AEW futures. You’ll also hear Hangman Adam Page explain how he secured a horse for the original Stadium Stampede in Jacksonville and Scorpio Sky’s tale of his amazing red suit and his instant chemistry with Ethan Page. Plus, Thunder Rosa shares what the AEW Women’s World Championship means to her.

51 min

23

Jay Lethal

Jay Lethal leads a charmed life, one he likens to winning the golden ticket from Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory! He talks about his extraordinary run at Ring of Honor, how the pandemic directly contributed to him to eventually signing with AEW, and what it was like reuniting with his close friend, Sonjay Dutt at the ROH Supercard of Honor. Jay also shares stories about working with Adam Cole, Christian, and Truth Martini. Plus, Jay speaks to his wrestling influences and shaving his head, and does a couple of his infamous impersonations!

50 min

24

Marina Shafir

Marina Shafir shares details behind the crazy table bump she took when she challenged Jade Cargill for the TBS Title, her son’s very passionate reaction to her AEW debut match against Kris Statlander, and the meeting with Captain Shawn Dean that basically changed her future. She speaks to immigrating to America with her family as refugees from Moldova when she was 5-years-old, learning to speak English, assimilating into American culture, and the role that Judo and MMA played in her development. She also talks about the impact her father had on her athletic career, training, competition, injury, special friendships, and making the jump to professional wrestling. Plus, Marina has thoughts on violence, coffee, motherhood, love, Spider-Man, her AEW entrance theme, and zippered hoodies!

41 min

25

Tony Khan Previews Forbidden Door 2022

Tony Khan returns to break down the historic event and explain how injuries have impacted the card and led to some dream matches. Orange Cassidy is challenging Will Ospreay for the IWGP US Championship; the AEW All-Atlantic Championship will be awarded to Pac, Miro, Malakai Black or Tomohiro Ishii; Toni Storm takes on Thunder Rosa for the AEW Women’s World Title; an interim AEW World Champion will be crowned in a dream match between Jon Moxley and Hiroshi Tanahashi. There’s a “Winner Take All” contest for the ROH and IWGP Tag Team titles involving FTR, United Empire, and Roppongi Vice; a surprise opponent for Zack Sabre Jr. in another highly-anticipated dream match; Adam Cole, Hangman Adam Page, and Okada fighting Jay White for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship; The Bullet Club looking for retribution against Sting’s newly-reunited Dudes With Attitudes; and the Jericho Appreciation Society aligning with Minoru Suzuki to fight Eddie Kingston, Wheeler Yuta, and Shota Umino.

40 min

26

Ref Aubrey Edwards & Tony Schiavone

It has been an unbelievable few months at AEW, and so Ref Aubrey Edwards and Tony Schiavone decided it was time for a “shoot the shit” episode to unpack it all! They start with AEW FORBIDDEN DOOR, Claudio Castagnoli, the PPV-stealing-match by Will Ospreay and Orange Cassidy, and Pac being crowned the first-ever AEW All Atlantic Champion. They talk about AEW DOUBLE OR NOTHING, Martha Hart and the Owen Hart Cup Tournament, and AEW’s exciting return to Arthur Ashe Stadium for GRAND SLAM! And they have plenty to say about ROH and the upcoming Death Before Dishonor PPV.

44 min

27

Kiera Hogan

Kiera Hogan stepped to Athena at the Forum in Los Angeles on AEW DYNAMITE and explains what that moment was like! She talks about The Baddies faction with Jade Cargill and Red Velvet, how their TikToks got started, and the instant chemistry they felt the first time they got in a ring together. Kiera details her transformation from “The Girl on Fire” to “The Hottest Flame,” the role her blue and red hair plays, the significance of her ring gear, and why using her real name was so important to her. Kiera also shares how she discovered wrestling as a kid, some of the wrestling fan fiction she wrote, and what finally made her start training. Plus, Kiera speaks to the importance of being yourself, believing in yourself, and inspiring others!

38 min

28

Sonjay Dutt

Sonjay Dutt is the self-described hype man that makes Satnam Singh and Jay Lethal come together on AEW DYNAMITE and RAMPAGE. He explains how he juggles his many AEW hats including producer, coach, manager, wrestler, superhero, and BFF to Jay Lethal; how he made the jump from in ring performer to behind the scenes, what inspired his love of suits and ties, and how he plans to make Satnam Singh the next superstar in wrestling! Sonjay also talks about growing up watching wrestling with his dad, what inspired him to pursue pro wrestling himself, how he feels about his first-ever match, and what he remembers most about wrestling in India. And Sonjay shares his thoughts on the ROH Supercard of Honor, the recent Forbidden Door PPV, and not winning a single prize on “The Price is Right!” Plus, he describes his current pencil count, where he gets his supply, and how he perfected the art of keeping the pencil firmly behind his ear.

42 min

29

Rocky Romero

New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Rocky Romero details how a conversation with Tony Khan about the Roppongi Vice tag team opened the door to AEW and NJPW working together. Rocky talks about making his AEW debut on DARK, reuniting with his former tag partner Trent Beretta, and guesting on AEW DYNAMITE in a match against longtime opponent Bryan Danielson. Rocky explains his role in the Forbidden Door PPV, some of his favorite matches from AEW and NJPW’s first joint event, and his hopes for the upcoming ROH Death Before Dishonor PPV. He also remembers his early days at ROH, winning the ROH World Tag Team title for the first time, and how happy he is to know that ROH’s future and legacy are now in the hands of Tony Khan. Plus, Rocky tells the story behind his eye patch and reveals his favorite song, movie, TV show and menu item at McDonald’s in Japan.

48 min

30

Pat Buck

AEW Coach Pat Buck is a suit aficionado, and explains why he feels most comfortable in a shirt and tie, and why he does it better than Sonjay Dutt! Pat details his journey to AEW, what he loves most about working for the company, and how he believes his thoughts about talent align with Tony Khan’s. Pat also explains how he became a coach and trainer, and what it’s been like to see his former students like Kris Statlander, The Acclaimed, and Mark Sterling achieve success at AEW. Pat also shares his love of Batman, Star Wars, and comic books along with a crazy story involving a temporarily missing rental car.

45 min

31

Athena

Athena grew up watching wrestling with her grandfather, and explains why she calls herself the “mutt” of wrestling training, and what she learned from Lance Archer. She shares the story of her AEW DYNAMITE debut, tagging with Willow Nightingale at Fyter Fest Night 2, and how a day-drinking sesh with her mom somehow ignited a feud with Jade Cargill! She talks about her in-ring style, her finishing move, the O-Face, her newly-rediscovered passion for the business, and how much fun she’s having introducing the “Athena” character to AEW fans. Plus, Athena is a gamer, and shares her favorite games and consoles. She also speaks to her love of Batman and Black Adam, and reveals why she gave up on comic books. And check out the video episode on YouTube to meet Athena’s talking cat!

55 min

32

Swerve Strickland

Swerve Strickland, one half of the current AEW World Tag Team Champions, Swerve In Our Glory, talks about their incredible match against The Young Bucks and Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs at AEW DYNAMITE Fyter Fest Night 1 that resulted in their championship gold. He shares how he and Keith Lee became tag partners, why he likens their partnership to that of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant’s, and what the championship means to them. Swerve shares details from superstar rapper Kevin Gates’ AEW DYNAMITE appearance and how it felt to cake Mark Sterling’s face! Swerve also tells the story of “Whose house? Swerve’s House,” and comments on how the chant may have possibly inspired an NFL team to adopt it as their own! Plus, he discusses his military background, the inspiration behind his name, his new rap album, “Tears,” and who’s coming up on his own “Swerve City Podcast!”

47 min

33

Ref Aubrey Edwards & Tony Schiavone

There have been some big changes backstage at AEW that have resulted in some well-deserved promotions including one for AEW Unrestricted co-host Tony Schiavone! Tony & Aubrey discuss his new role as Senior Producer, Special Advisor & Talent Relations, and what the means for Tony and the AEW talent. They talk about Sonjay Dutt, Pat Buck, and QT Marshall’s new responsibilities around talent, creative, and production, and how all of these changes will help AEW continue to grow. They give a peak behind-the-curtain at what it takes to deliver DYNAMITE and RAMPAGE to TV every week, and they preview some big events coming up before year end for AEW!

40 min

34

Mark Sterling

Mark Sterling Esq. agrees with Swerve Strickland about one thing only – that Mark has a very cake-able face! Mark talks about Swerve In Our Glory, Jade Cargill, his new clients, Josh Woods & Tony Nese, and the client who started everything for Mark at AEW! He has some words for Danhausen, some thoughts on wearing suits and who does it best at AEW, and some reasons why he calls Pat Buck “dad.” Mark also talks about his extensive action figure collection, his backyard wrestling production experiences, his love of video games, what he enjoys most about co-hosting the “Major Wrestling Figures” podcast, and his biggest goals at AEW. And if you need legal assistance and are NOT currently employed by AEW, do NOT call Mark Sterling!

45 min

35

2022 All Out PPV Preview with Tony Khan

AEW ALL OUT is live from the Now Arena in Chicago this Sunday, September 4th, and AEW CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan returns to break down the sizzlin’ hot card with Ref Aubrey and Tony Schiavone. Jon Moxley and CM Punk in an AEW World Championship match; Toni Storm, Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., Jamie Hayter, and Hikaru Shida fighting for the AEW Interim Women’s World Championship; Jade Cargill defending the TBS Championship against Athena; The Acclaimed challenging Swerve In Our Glory for the AEW World Tag Team Championship; the crowning of the first-ever Trios Champions; and a dream match featuring Lionheart Chris Jericho and The American Dragon Bryan Danielson! There’s a grudge match a year in the making between Jungle Boy and Christian Cage, a showdown between Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs, and a history-making match for Sting! Plus, Tony Khan reveals the stacked matchups for Zero Hour, and explains how you can watch ALL OUT in a movie theater near you!

34 min

36

Claudio Castagnoli

Claudio Castagnoli made quite a debut on AEW DYNAMITE during Blood & Guts III when he “swung” Chris Jericho on the top of the steel cage! Claudio details that story along with the circumstances around his surprise AEW debut at Forbidden Door! He explains the original idea for his debut, and how an injury to longtime friend Bryan Danielson changed those initial plans. He talks about joining the Blackpool Combat Club with Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, Wheeler Yuta, and William Regal, what makes their chemistry work so well, and why he thinks Serena Deeb would be the perfect addition. Claudio also shares his thoughts on the ROH World Championship, what it was like being in the ring again with Dustin Rhodes and Jake Hager, and who he’s looking forward to working with at AEW. Plus, Claudio discusses his love of crossfit, flight simulator video games, bad puns, and rooming with Mr. Brodie Lee.

44 min

37

Madison Rayne

Madison Rayne is a self-described gymnastics mom, dog mom, and creme brulee connoisseur, and she’s also a big blast of positive energy and the new women’s coach at AEW! She describes the whirlwind process that was her AEW signing, her first day in the locker room, and what it was like to immediately get in the ring with Jade Cargill in pursuit of the TBS Championship! She discusses her coaching style, working with younger talent like Anna Jay, Penelope Ford, and Julia Hart, and what it takes to be a great heel. She also recounts wrestling her younger brothers as a kid, dropping out of college to pursue pro wrestling, the evolution of the Madison Rayne character, learning to do commentary with husband Josh Mathews, and what it was like to come back to wrestling after having a baby. Plus she talks about her love of baseball, boy bands, and The Clippers.

45 min

38

William Regal Returns

William Regal and Tony Schiavone go way back, and their first introduction is just one story that William Regal tells on his return visit to AEW Unrestricted. Regal explains why he had to kayfabe Schiavone about his AEW debut, why he owes Tony Schiavone a huge debt of thanks for his wrestling success in the States, and the crash course he got in live TV from Tony. Regal also talks about the first time he met and worked for Kevin Sullivan, the match that never was that resulted in William’s broken nose, his Clash Of The Champions XXXVIII against Antonio Inoki, and the best heckling he every received in the ring. Plus, William offers some words of advice for all aspiring young pro wrestlers.

52 min

39

Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho has been with AEW since day one! He talks about his first meeting with Tony Khan, what prompted him to sign with the start-up wrestling company, his initial goals when DYNAMITE launched, and what he hopes to do as TV starts its fourth year! Chris talks about being the first ever AEW World Champion, his matches with Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson, and what it was like working with young talent like Darby Allin, MJF, Sammy Guevara, Jungle Boy and Danny Garcia. He speaks to the formation of the Inner Circle and the Jericho Appreciation Society, his feud with Eddie Kingston, the hardcore match with Nick Gage, and the first Stadium Stampede. Plus, Chris shares the inspiration behind the Painmaker and Lionheart Chris Jericho!

51 min

40

Julia Hart

Julia Hart is the newest addition to the House of Black, and explains why she’s so happy to be amongst the super talented faction. She talks about her pitch to join, her slow transformation, and finding her place in their spooky entrance. She tells the story of the black mist and the havoc it wrecked on her old Varsity Blonds jacket, what it was like to blow it in Pac’s face, and how she managed to wrestle Jade while wearing an eye patch. She talks about her vignette with Miro, which AEW female talent she’d love to add to the faction, and whether her pet python might someday make an in-ring appearance (watch the video episode on YouTube to see her snake). Julia also speaks to training with QT Marshall, signing with AEW, her first conversation with Tony Khan, her run with the Varsity Blonds, and what she’s learned from Jerry Lynn and Jake The Snake Roberts. Plus, Julia dishes on her love of 80s hair metal, the Guitar Hero video game, and the ukulele.

41 min

41

The Gunns

Austin and Colten Gunn aka The Gunns talk about dropping the “Club” from their name, the heat they have with Danhausen, The Acclaimed, and their own father, and why life is so much better now that they’re part of The Firm with MJF. The brothers share the origin of the Ass Boys chant, their respective journeys to AEW, and their plans to take the AEW World Tag Team Championship off The Acclaimed. Austin describes his AEW debut, and how he came to be the biggest cheerleader at ringside during AEW’s pandemic lockdown matches. Colten recalls his secret wrestling training in Los Angeles, what his dad said when he found out, and why he quit his corporate job to come to AEW. Plus, Austin talks about his music career, and his recent foray into reality TV, and Colten explains why he held a grudge against Dustin Rhodes for 15 years!

46 min

42

Saraya Debut, Grand Slam, and AEW

Tony Schiavone and Ref Aubrey Edwards catch up on everything AEW! They discuss some of their favorite moments and matches from the AEW DYNAMITE 3rd Anniversary Show, and Grand Slam at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, NY. They also talk about Saraya’s debut, The Acclaimed becoming AEW World Tag Team Champions, Billy Gunn’s resurging popularity, and National Scissoring Day! And they comment on the mic skills of Jon Moxley and MJF, the leadership contributions from Chris Jericho in the AEW locker room, and Ref Aubrey’s recent chest-bump in the ring.

35 min

43

Ari Daivari

Ari Daivari shares the origin story of the Trust Busters, the reason he changed his name, why he calls Las Vegas home now (despite being from Minneapolis, MN), and how he found out he was All Elite. He recounts what it was like to debut on AEW RAMPAGE in his real hometown, in the main event against Orange Cassidy, and what he learned from his older brother that helped him get to this point in his career. Ari speaks to coaching and producing the AEW women, including Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., his biggest goals when it comes to developing talent, and the importance of brutal honesty when it comes to match feedback. Plus, he talks about his Tae Kwon Do training, his favorite wrestlers as a kid (shout out to Sting!), his action figure collection, the Trust Busters entrance theme, training with Arik Cannon, finding your spot on the card, and wrestling with brother Shawn Daivari in India.

47 min

44

Renee Paquette

Renee Paquette recounts her AEW DYNAMITE debut in Toronto, working with Christian Cage that first night, and opening the show in front of her hometown crowd. She talks about debuting around the same time as her close friend, Saraya, MJF’s impersonation of her husband, Jon Moxley, and what prompted her return to wrestling in the first place. Renee also explains what it’s like balancing motherhood and career, the difference in her approach to live interviews versus backstage vignettes, how she deals with all the blood in Mox matches, and the role her father played in her love of wrestling. She also discusses her childhood dream of being a comedic actress, what inspired her to write a cookbook, Jon’s favorite meals, and her favorite Canadian snacks including hickory sticks and all-dressed chips!

51 min

45

Tony Khan Previews Full Gear 2022

Tony Khan returns to break down the 10 biggest matches on the hottest card in wrestling with Ref Aubrey and Tony Schiavone. MJF challenges Jon Moxley for the AEW World Championship; Toni Storm and Jamie Hayter battle for the Interim Women’s World Championship; The Acclaimed defend the World Tag Team Championship against Swerve In Our Glory; Chris Jericho, Claudio Castagnoli, Bryan Danielson and Sammy Guevara fight to be ROH World Champion; Jade Cargill takes on Nyla Rose for the TBS Championship; and it’s Wardlow versus Powerhouse Hobbs versus Samoa Joe for the TNT Championship. There’s also a grudge match between Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus, a showdown between Saraya and Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., and a historic match in the making as Darby Allin and Sting take on Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett. Plus, TK explains how you can watch FULL GEAR in a movie theater near you!

42 min

46

Saraya

Saraya returned to the ring at AEW Full Gear, and shares the story of what it took to get cleared, and how she felt when she got final word that she could return to in-ring performing. She details how her injury has changed her move set, what she did to prepare for her return, and the role that Dean Malenko played in getting her ring ready. She also talks about being smuggled into the venue for her surprise AEW debut, her new music and name, working with Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., her special relationship with Renee Paquette and Jon Moxley, and dealing with haters. Plus, Saraya tells stories about her childhood growing up in a wrestling family, moving to the States as a teenager, what it was like to have a documentary and feature film made about them, and why she’s having so many tattoos removed.

56 min

47

Tony Nese

Tony Nese clicked immediately with his AEW tag partner, Josh Woods. He talks about how they came together, and when and how Smart Mark Sterling was added to the mix as their manager. Tony recalls his early AEW Dark match with Fuego Del Sol, his first in-ring experience with Orange Cassidy, and what it was like to make his AEW RAMPAGE debut challenging Sammy Guevara for the TNT Championship. Tony also talks about his friendships with Swerve Strickland, Ari Daivari, Trent Beretta, and Alex Reynolds. He shares stories about working summer sleep away camps, how he got into body building and fitness, when he realized he wanted to wrestle, and why he was “ride or die” for Chris Jericho as a kid.

42 min

48

Josh Woods

Josh Woods delivers the goods and the story behind his arrival to AEW. He talks about teaming up with Tony Nese and Mark Sterling in the Varsity Athletes, dropping the ROH Pure Championship to Wheeler Yuta at Supercard of Honor, and then judging Wheeler Yuta vs. Daniel Garcia’s Pure Championship match at Death Before Dishonor. Josh discusses what it was like to make the jump from amateur wrestling in college to professional wrestling, how he became The Technical Beast, and why he enjoys being a heel. And he explains why he’d love to see Jake Hager join forces with the Varsity Athletes.

47 min

49

Willow Nightingale

Willow Nightingale brings her incredibly infectious laugh, hugely positive attitude, and great wrestling stories to AEW Unrestricted. She chronicles her journey to AEW including her AEW debut match against Thunder Rosa, her first AEW: Rampage appearance against Red Velvet in the Owen Hart Cup Tournament, and her recent Three Way in Chicago against Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., Jamie Hayter, and TayJay. Willow recounts how video games got her interested in pro wrestling, why she decided to pursue a wrestling career, and what she learned during her initial run at ROH. She also shares her favorite match to date, why she wants to tag with Dalton Castle, and what she learned from Tony Nese in the short time she trained with him.

45 min